Brian Halstead, Deputy Commissioner | Nebraska Department of Education
Governor Jim Pillen and the Nebraska Department of Education held a ceremony at the State Capitol Rotunda on June 10 to honor graduates from the class of 2025 who achieved top scores on their ACT exams.
Governor Pillen remarked, “The ACT ceremony represents the culmination of years and years of study. The students who are here today should feel a great deal of pride in this accomplishment.” He further expressed support for those continuing their education in-state through the Presidential Scholars Program, highlighting Nebraska as "the safest place to raise a family."
Dr. Brian Maher, Commissioner of the Nebraska Department of Education, joined Governor Pillen in recognizing these students' achievements. He stated, “Earning a top score on the ACT is an extraordinary achievement,” and acknowledged the contributions of parents and educators. Maher congratulated the students and wished them success in their future endeavors.
This year, 33 students from Nebraska's high school graduating class achieved a perfect score of 36 on the ACT, a feat accomplished by less than one-tenth of one percent of test-takers historically.
In an effort to support high-achieving students, the University of Nebraska Office of the President began funding a new Nebraska Presidential Scholars Program last year. This program covers all costs associated with attendance for any Nebraska student scoring a perfect 36 on the ACT, along with providing a $5,000 annual stipend. The university aims to offer scholarships covering total attendance costs to all Nebraska students scoring 33 or above.
Millard North High School had nine students achieving top scores this year, more than any other school in the state.
Alerts Sign-up